Seven Week Closure For Cycle Path Viaduct Refurbishment Between Cowes and Newport

Plans are being developed to replace the entire deck of the Cement Mills Viaduct, a vital section of the Cowes to Newport Cycletrack.

Under the work, Island Roads will replace nearly 100 panels that are now nearing end of life with new highly durable decking that is designed to be widely recyclable.

The seven-week project will not begin until September, after the main holiday season, but Island Roads is keen to provide adequate advance notice given the project will require the complete closure of the bridge.

The work will be undertaken by Island company DDGA who have successfully delivered many other infrastructure projects on behalf of Island Roads including the protective steel netting on the cliff face above Gills Cliff Road at Ventnor.

Dating back to Victorian times, Cement Mills Viaduct was built over Dodnor Creek as part of the original Cowes to Sandown railway line. Today the track is part of the National Cycle Network Route 23 between Reading and Sandown and locally is part of the Red Squirrel Trail.

The timing of the work has been pushed back to the Autumn, avoiding the summer season when the route is at its busiest, following discussions with cycling group Cyclewight. The work cannot be done in the winter as materials used in the redecking process cannot be used in wet weather.

Project manager George Lovelock said:

“Unfortunately it is simply not possible to keep the bridge open during maintenance, but regular users will be aware the existing decking is now in need of replacement.

“The new decking is a sustainable solution, will provide a far smoother ride, and will last for many years to come. We are particularly pleased to once again be working with Island company DDGA to deliver the project.”

During work, the official diversion will be via Horsebridge Hill and Stag Lane. Further information about the project will be issued ahead of commencement.